Phantasm | Interview with Ronit Genik of Reverie
If you asked me what I would love to do for the rest of my life, it would be to sit and fantasize (with a mimosa perhaps). Nothing else describes me better than a perpetual idealist, who relishes in conjuring up beautiful desires and dreams – that may or not happen but the process will always be a thrill ride...and I like my roller coasters.
Coming across Reverie, a New York based label that prides itself for designs garnered through a state of daydreaming, I knew it was a lock and key match built for the heavenly clouds.
While my New York plans fell through the cracks last year, the next best thing was an interview with the designer behind this sublimely ethereal brand, Ronit Genik. After spending time studying fashion in Parsons School of Design and a year in Paris, Genik created Reverie as an ode to individualism and transcendent confidence.
Her designs are not flamboyant or screaming for redemption but are subtle and coy; designs that speak for themselves without unnecessary frilly adornments. Indubitably, her designs are created through a healthy dose of phantasm.
How is Reverie different from other brands, considering there are a multitude of brands in New York?
I started Reverie because I believe that I express a unique point of view by using beautiful fabrics and original prints. My collections have special themes and concepts that are meaningful and personal to me and I think that comes through in each piece.
Are there any interesting fabrics or elements you tend to explore during designing?
I choose fabrics and concepts that are very special to me like textures or a unique cut or silhouette. I also love to mix opposites and use novelty fabrics in unexpected places. I try to use techniques to keep the collection feminine but edgy and modern.Do you think luxury and fast fashion can co-exist?
I think luxury and fast fashion can co-exist. Although many in the industry can be frustrated at fast fashion retailers knocking off designer’s original ideas from the runway, it is great that it can reach a larger consumer base and offer fashion trends at affordable prices. It makes fashion available to everyone. I think you need both markets, one to be aspirational and create desire and one to bring ideas and trends to a larger market.
What has been the biggest obstacle that you’ve had to overcome so far?
The biggest challenges are breaking into the industry as an emerging designer, as well as getting noticed and keeping up each season. As there are many established and up and coming designers out there, staying true to your brand and being innovative and finding new inspirations that are meaningful to you are keys to success.
What has been your most notable design to date and why?
There are always pieces in each collection that have special meaning to me. One of my favorites in Spring/Summer collection, is the Cloud printed silk coat with detachable hem that snaps off to become a crop jacket. I love this for Spring, it’s light and easy in a fun versatile print, whether your caught in a spring shower or on a bright sunny day.
Has being a fashion designer changed your views towards the fashion industry?
Sometimes the industry can be challenging and competitive, but I have had positive experiences within the fashion industry. Sometimes, there are pressures to follow trends or the hot new colors of the season, but I stay true to my brand and have had great feedback and support.
Would you consider fashion to be a significant part of your life, why?
I would consider fashion to be a very significant part of my life, because its what I live and breathe every day. Sometimes it just takes the smallest detail I see to get me inspired and new ideas flowing. I truly believe creativity and inspiration can be found anywhere.What are the upcoming plans for Reverie?
I hope to keep growing as a brand, developing into more areas like accessories and jewelry. I would love to create a lifestyle brand that incorporates all aspects of a woman's wardrobe.
If you had one last piece of chiffon left, what would you make with it?
If I had one last piece of chiffon, I would make a floaty A-line dress. Very simple, beautiful and timeless with a small detail like a deep pleat from the back neck to give the dress a little twist.
What advice would you give to aspiring fashion designers or students thinking of studying fashion?
I would advise that if fashion is your passion, follow your dream. I think its also great to get experience by interning and networking with others in the industry. As a designer, sometimes there is pressure to follow trends but I think it’s also important to stay true to your vision and yourself.
Images credit to Ronit Genik
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